The Woodsman – Location, Tickets, Reviews
Based on the writings of L. Frank Baum (author of The Wonderful of Wizard of Oz), James Ortiz’s The Woodsman is the tale of Oz’s beloved Tin Man.
The story takes place in “Munchkin country,” in the eastern portion of Oz. It centers on Nick, a charming woodsman. Nick falls in love with Nimmee, a sorcerer’s daughter, who a wicked witch had turned into a slave.
Save for a brief narration at the beginning and a few sung verses scattered throughout, the beautiful, somber play is devoid of words. Instead, it relies on movement, live violin accompaniment, and non-verbal (yet highly effective) sounds from the actors to relay events and express emotion. The piece also incorporates Bunraku puppetry, a traditional Japanese form of puppet theater that involves the use of detailed (often life-sized) puppets.
Maxamoo
The Woodsman is a sweet, solemn, and well-crafted play brimming with magic and heart. The cast does a phenomenal job conveying emotion through coordinated movements and soft, melodious chants. The choreography coupled with vivid violin vibratos played by Edward Hardy, were marvelous and moving.
The intricate movements of the puppets used to portray the Witch, Tin Man, and the monstrous creature, Kalidah were admirable, but the simple sound effects that brought them to life (such as the evil witch’s malevolent wheezing, and Kalidah’s frightening “growls” ) were even more impressive. James Ortiz, who wrote, co-directed, and starred in the play, is undeniably talented, and definitely an artist to watch.
Public Opinion
The audience was entranced by the production we saw; one could hear a pin drop during its most dramatic parts, and viewers chuckled heartily at the show’s lighter moments. Tweets about the show:
@vivalavanway: @StrangemenCo ‘s #TheWoodsman may be the most emotionally moving show I’ve seen in NYC. GO SEE IT @59E59 ! http://t.co/QxswFkcVg3
@Clay_Zambo: THE WOODSMAN, playing @59E59 through 2/16, may be the most magical hour you’ll spend this year. #theatre #wow
Have you seen The Woodsman? What did you think? Comment below or tweet us at @Maxamoo!
Critics’ Reviews
Theatre is Easy
BOTTOM LINE: Bunraku puppetry executed excellently to tell the heart-wrenching story explaining the origin of The Wizard of Oz’s Tin Man.
Theater Pizzazz
The Woodsman packs plenty of visual wonders and genuine heartbreak into an hour running time on one of the smaller stages at 59E59 Theaters.
TheaterMania
Though in the confines of such an intimate space you never quite lose yourself in the fantasy unfolding onstage, even an objective eye can appreciate the beauty of fine storytelling.
Woman Around Town
The Woodsman is a richly manifest, well told tale, skillfully paced, beautifully performed, and as accessible to kids (not too young) as to adults.
New York Theatre Review
The self-congratulatory smirk of theatre productions which train in makeshift aesthetics isn’t found in The Woodsman; instead there is only vast respect for the tale to be told.
TICKETS
$18 (click here for tickets)
DATES
Performances through February 16, 2014
LOCATION
59E59 Theaters
59 East 59th Street
New York City
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RUNNING TIME
1 hour, no intermission
CAST & CREW
Written by James Ortiz
Directed by James Ortiz and Claire Karpen
Featuring Eliza Simpson, Meghan St. Thomas, Carol Uraneck, Aaron McDaniel, Will Gallacher, James Ortiz, Benjamin Bass, Amanda A. Lederer, Devin Dunne Cannon, and Edward W. Hardy